The Icon Hotel & Lounge ★★★★

Prague's very essence breathes innovation and tradition, turning its scarred history and perfectly preserved, medieval façade on its head with its spirited desire to be on the cutting-edge of creativity and design. No surprise then that you can pick a hotel blindfold out of hat and you will probably find a little of that spirit has rubbed off on it. But VeryChic doesn't look for just any hotel, and if the standard is already special, then it has to be something truly exceptional to get the seal of approval. I know this, and yet I am still surprised on arriving at the Icon Hotel. It perfectly embodies what Prague has come to mean to me.  Avant-guard vision and old-world romance in a harmonious waltz that makes the largest UNESCO World Heritage site a relic of living history in the making.

On entering the grandiose nineteenth-century building I am struck by the dramatic interior, juxtaposing baroque touches with a pop-art tone. This hotel has launched with great success; its theatrical design intended to create a perfect setting for the platform it offers Czech's creative industries. Not only a highly fashionable yet laid-back boutique hotel, it is a hub for local artists to meet and put on exhibitions, making it one of the hippest places in Prague for those in the know. The hotel's own décor is the work of up-and-coming Czech designers, creating a contemporary feel, whilst making the most of the original splendid pillars and high ceilings. The hotel’s glamorous sweeping staircase is illuminated by contemporary chandeliers, but I opt for the lift as I am warmly welcomed and ushered toward my room. The staff here are no exception to the rule that Prague is one of the friendliest, most convivial cities in the world and I instantly feel right at home.

My bedroom is no less stylish - clean lines and a sophisticated feel, livened by rich purple touches to contrast with the soft beiges, leather chairs and wooden floors. The bathroom is polished and inviting, boasting fine complimentary products by Rituals and a bath so big I could almost swim in it. This is a detail that invariably wins my heart in any hotel but in this case la pièce de résistance is, without shadow of doubt, the magnificent bed. Handmade by Hästens with luxury linen by De Witte Lietaer, this is the Rolls-Royce of beds. It is all I can do to resist the temptation of sinking into its sumptuous comfort and spending the rest of the day watching the bright light from my window play across the ceiling. Prague is waiting beyond those sunny panes of glass, however, and there is so much to see in so little time that I am compelled to make a swift exit before my resolve weakens.

The best thing to do in Prague is to walk and see where providence takes you, as you cannot fail to come across a myriad of beautiful sights, arresting architecture, wonderful little exhibitions and curious adventures. The hotel being just a stone's throw away from Wenceslas Square, I am within walking distance of almost anywhere, and so I allow my feet to carry me where they will. My wanderings take me well into the night. My stomach grumbling, I discover a fantastic little gem of a restaurant before being talked into seeing a cabaret by some locals I meet there.

It is very late by the time I stumble 'home', and it is with infinite pleasure that I at last melt into my marvellous bed, at peace in the knowledge of three things. First, that I have my own kettle to brew myself that essential, revitalising cup of tea in bed when I wake up. Second, that I have a 20% discount at the hotel's Planet Zen Spa, which I fully intend to make the most of on the morrow to chase away any lurking hangover in order to step out fresh as a daisy, ready for further adventures in this fascinating town! Last but not least, that I can sleep in as late as I like and not miss out on the à la carte breakfast, which can be served in my room and is available all day – a supremely cool touch that sums up the innovative, pampering, open-hearted and relaxed class of The Icon Hotel, the last word in Prague style.